Hand-Wearable Haptic Interface With Joint-Movement Restrictor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) systems lack realistic simulation of interactions with virtual objects, as users cannot effectively feel resistance when interacting with virtual objects, leading to an unrealistic experience.
Innovation Solution
A hand-wearable haptic interface device with a joint-movement restrictor that provides varying flexion resistance forces based on a control signal, using meta-materials or electromagnets to simulate the resistance of virtual objects, allowing users to feel the physical properties of objects through finger joint resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional VR/AR systems are used without haptic feedback, then the system complexity is low and ease of operation is high, but the realism and immersion of virtual object interaction is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the haptic interface by using meta-materials that can dynamically alter their mechanical properties (stiffness, flexibility) in response to electrical signals. This allows the system to simulate different virtual object properties by adjusting material parameters rather than using complex mechanical structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical haptic feedback systems with an electrical field-based approach using meta-materials and electromagnets. Instead of complex mechanical actuators and linkages, the system uses electrical signals to control material properties and generate haptic effects, simplifying the overall system architecture
2Adaptability or versatility
If static haptic resistance is provided, then the device structure is simple, but the simulation of different virtual object properties is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic haptic resistance by using meta-materials whose mechanical properties can be changed in real-time based on virtual object characteristics. The haptic interface transitions from static to dynamic resistance, allowing simulation of various object properties (soft, hard, flexible, rigid) through electrical control rather than mechanical reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the electrical parameters supplied to meta-materials and electromagnets to dynamically adjust haptic resistance. By varying voltage, current, or magnetic field strength, the system can simulate different virtual object properties without physical reconfiguration, enhancing adaptability while maintaining structural simplicity
3Reliability
If no haptic feedback is provided, then energy consumption is low, but user immersion and interaction quality are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces energy-intensive mechanical haptic systems with more efficient electrical field-based meta-materials and electromagnets. This substitution reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining or improving haptic feedback quality, as electrical fields can be generated and modulated more efficiently than mechanical actuators
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic or pulsed electrical signals to activate meta-materials and electromagnets only when haptic feedback is needed, rather than continuous operation. This periodic activation reduces energy consumption while maintaining user immersion during interaction events
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device enhances the realism of VR/AR experiences by providing dynamic resistance that mimics real-world object interactions, allowing users to feel the shape, size, and properties of virtual objects, improving the simulation of object manipulation and obstruction.
Implementation Method 1
The joint-movement restrictor comprises a meta-material having a malleability which is adapted to vary based on an electric signal supplied to the meta-material
Implementation Method 2
The joint-movement restrictor comprises an arrangement of electro-magnets adapted to have a repelling force between the electro-magnets which can vary based on an electric signal supplied to the electro-magnets
Data Source
AI summary
A hand-wearable haptic interface device for simulating interaction with a virtual object in a Virtual Reality (VR) or Augmented Reality (AR) environment is provided. The hand-wearable haptic interface device can provide improved simulation of an obstruction caused by a virtual object in a virtual or augmented reality environment. The device comprises a joint-movement restrictor adapted to be positioned adjacent a finger joint when the device is worn on a hand of a user. The movement restrictor is adapted to provide different magnitudes of flexion resistance force for resisting flexion of the finger joint based on a flexion resistance control signal.